Telescoping Tube Position Lock Apparatus

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the inventive technology relate generally to item support apparatus. Although a focus of the inventive technology may, in some embodiments, be on support of musical related items such as a microphone, the scope of the inventive technology and its applicability is not necessarily limited as such. In various embodiments of the telescoping tube position lock apparatus, certain inventive technology provides enhanced functionality (e.g., stand adjustability), enhanced performance and/or improved ease of control.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application claiming priority to andbenefit of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/863,168, filed Jul. 15, 2010(published as publication number US20110154975A1 on Jun. 30, 2011 and tobe issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,367,919 on Feb. 5, 2013), which is theUnited States National Phase of international patent applicationPCT/US2009/031162, filed 15 Jan. 2009 (published as publication numberWO 2009/091929 A2 on Jul. 23, 2009), said PCT application claimingpriority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/011,315, filed 15 Jan.,2008, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/144,649, filed 14 Jan.2009, each of said applications incorporated herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Generally, the inventive technology disclosed herein relate to itemsupport apparatus. More particularly, certain embodiments of theinventive technology relate to a telescoping tube position lockapparatus (e.g., an apparatus that locks the relative position of onetube of a nested (telescoping) tube system). Applications include amicrophone stand.

BACKGROUND ART

The desire to reliably support items has been well known for years.Particular attention has focused on the support of musical instruments,and other musical items, because of their delicate nature andvulnerability to damage, among other reasons. However, despite thisattention, there still are deficiencies in existing, conventionally useddesigns. Such deficiencies may include, but are certainly not limitedto, inefficiencies accompanying the loss of musician preferred settings(e.g., a preferred height) upon apparatus breakdown (e.g., the breakdownof a keyboard stand after a show), limited adjustability of apparatus(e.g., the limited adjustability of conventional keyboard stands),“untidy”, cluttered power cables organization (or lack thereof),unnecessarily high risk of item damage during use thereof (e.g.,keyboard slippage off a support), unnecessary complexity of design(e.g., as seen in conventional guitar stands featuring retainers on asupport yoke), stands (e.g., microphone stands) of sub-optimal strength,unable to support a downward weight applied by, e.g., a gesturingsinger, and a complete absence of any apparatus that assist in and seekto facilitate the awkward and difficult raising or lowering of standsupported speakers. Indeed, embodiments of the inventive technology seekto resolve, or at least mitigate, one or more of these problems.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

It is an object of at least one embodiment of the inventive technologyto eliminate or, at least reduce the inefficiencies accompanying theloss of musician preferred settings (e.g., a preferred height) uponbreakdown (e.g., the breakdown of a keyboard stand after a show) ofconventional apparatus.

It is an object of at least one embodiment of the inventive technologyto provide a more adjustable keyboard support stand.

It is an object of at least one embodiment of the inventive technologyto provide a more aesthetic, less cluttered organization of power cablesthat power keyboards being supported by keyboard stands.

It is an object of at least one embodiment of the inventive technologyto abate the unnecessarily high risk of item damage during use thereof(e.g., keyboard slippage off a support).

It is an object of at least one embodiment of the inventive technologyto offer a simple, more robust, guitar stand design (as compared withconventional guitar stands featuring retainers on a support yoke).

It is an object of at least one embodiment of the inventive technologyto offer an apparatus that locks the relative position of one tube of anested (telescoping) tube system with a strength that is greater thanprior designs.

It is an object of at least one embodiment of the inventive technologyto provide an apparatus that assists in and seeks to facilitate theawkward and difficult raising or lowering of stand supported speakers.

Of course other advantages and goals of the various inventive technologydisclosed herein may be mentioned, either explicitly or inherently, inthe following description and the figures. It is also of note that thefigures disclosed herein include not only the figures filed the day ofthis international application filing, but also those figures of the twoprovisional applications that this application claims priority to, asboth such provisional applications, including all the drawings filedtherein, are incorporated into this filing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the inventivekeyboard stand apparatus in support mode.

FIG. 2 shows a top view of an embodiment of the inventive keyboard standapparatus in support mode.

FIG. 3 shows a side view of an embodiment of the inventive keyboardstand apparatus in storage mode.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the inventivekeyboard stand apparatus in support mode, with microphone boom.

FIG. 5 shows perspective and side views of embodiment of the inventivekeyboard stand apparatus in support mode.

FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of components of the inventive keyboardstand apparatus in support mode.

FIG. 7 show perspective views of an embodiment of the inventive keyboardstand apparatus in support mode.

FIG. 8 shows views of the housing of the support attachment module of anembodiment t of the inventive keyboard stand apparatus.

FIG. 9 shows views of a biased snap button that may find use in theadjustment of the telescoping tubes of the supports of an embodiment ofthe inventive keyboard stand apparatus.

FIG. 10 shows a side view of an embodiment of the inventive keyboardstand apparatus in support mode, showing non-zero angles of supportsurfaces.

FIG. 11 shows an upright column that is a component of the supportadjustment system found in embodiments of the inventive keyboard standapparatus.

FIG. 12 shows a side view of an embodiment (a one support tierembodiment) of the inventive keyboard stand apparatus in support mode.

FIG. 13 shows a side view of an embodiment of the inventive keyboardstand apparatus in support mode.

FIG. 14 shows a support view, in exploded and other view, as found in atleast one embodiment of the inventive keyboard stand apparatus.

FIG. 15 shows the support length adjustment system as found in at leastone embodiment of the inventive keyboard stand apparatus.

FIG. 16 shows components of the support arms onto which may be securedend stops, in at least one embodiment of the inventive keyboard standapparatus.

FIG. 17 shows ends stops that may be found at the end of support arms inat least one embodiment of the inventive keyboard stand apparatus.

FIG. 18 shows an axial cross-section of the outer shell of the uprightrear support of at least one embodiment of the inventive keyboard standapparatus.

FIG. 19 shows views of a cable retainer that may be found in at leastone embodiment of the inventive keyboard stand apparatus.

FIG. 20 shows an axial cross-section of the outer shell of the uprightrear support of at least one embodiment of the inventive keyboard standapparatus

FIG. 21 shows exploded views of an embodiment of the inventivetelescoping tube position lock apparatus.

FIG. 22 shows views of the friction wedge, and the wedge base, in anembodiment of the inventive telescoping tube position lock apparatus.

FIG. 23 shows views of the friction wedge, and the wedge base, in anembodiment of the inventive telescoping tube position lock apparatus.

FIG. 24 shows an exploded view of a stand in which an embodiment of theinventive telescoping tube position lock apparatus may find application.

FIG. 25 shows a view of a stand in which an embodiment of the inventivetelescoping tube position lock apparatus may find application.

FIG. 26 shows a squeeze trigger that might find application in a standincorporating the inventive telescoping tube position lock apparatus.

FIG. 27 shows a perspective view of a stand incorporating an embodimentof the inventive item support apparatus.

FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of a stand incorporating an embodimentof the inventive item support apparatus supporting a guitar.

FIG. 29 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of the inventive itemsupport apparatus.

FIG. 30 shows an exploded view, from the rear, of an embodiment of theinventive item support apparatus.

FIG. 31 shows a top view of an embodiment of the inventive item supportapparatus in item support augmentation mode.

FIG. 32 shows a bottom view of an embodiment of the inventive itemsupport apparatus in item support augmentation mode.

FIG. 33 shows views depicting progression of an embodiment of theinventive item support apparatus to item support augmentation mode, asmay be seem upon placement of a guitar in the apparatus.

FIG. 34 shows two perspective views of an embodiment of the inventiveitem support apparatus in item support augmentation mode.

FIG. 35 shows a side view of an embodiment of a sound speaker supportapparatus.

FIG. 36 shows a side view of an embodiment of a sound speaker supportapparatus.

FIG. 37 shows a side view of an embodiment of a sound speaker supportapparatus.

FIG. 38 shows a side exploded view of an embodiment of a sound speakersupport apparatus.

FIG. 39 shows a side view of an embodiment of a sound speaker supportapparatus.

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

The present invention includes a variety of aspects, which may becombined in different ways. The following descriptions are provided tolist elements and describe some of the embodiments of the presentinvention. These elements are listed with initial embodiments, howeverit should be understood that they may be combined in any manner and inany number to create additional embodiments. The variously describedexamples and preferred embodiments should not be construed to limit thepresent invention to only the explicitly described systems, techniques,and applications. Further, this description should be understood tosupport and encompass descriptions and claims of all the variousembodiments, systems, techniques, methods, devices, and applicationswith any number of the disclosed elements, with each element alone, andalso with any and all various permutations and combinations of allelements in this or any subsequent application.

At least one embodiment of the inventive technology may be described asa keyboard stand apparatus 1 that comprises: an upright rear support 2;two keyboard supports 3 that, when the apparatus is in a supportconfiguration (see, e.g., FIG. 1), are established forward of theupright rear support (a keyboardist plays forward of the standapparatus) and define a keyboard support surface 4 having an angle 5relative to horizontal; and a support base 6 established to support theupright rear support when the apparatus is in a support configuration,where the keyboard supports are angularly adjustable so that theaforementioned angle is adjustable, and where upright rear supportproximal ends 7 of the two keyboard supports (ends of such supports thatare nearest, as opposed to distal, the upright rear support) are heightadjustable. It is of note that the keyboard support surface is the partof the supports that may contact the keyboard during support thereof.Also, the keyboard support surface is viewed as having an angle relativeto horizontal even if such angle is zero. In certain two tieredembodiments, the two keyboard supports are two lower keyboard supports10, the keyboard support surface is a lower keyboard support surface 11,the angle relative to horizontal is a first angle 12 relative tohorizontal, and the apparatus further comprises two upper keyboardsupports 25 that, when the apparatus is in the support configuration,are established forward of the upright rear support, above the two lowerkeyboard supports and define an upper keyboard support surface 26 havinga second angle 14 relative to horizontal. The upright rear supportproximal ends 7 of the two upper keyboard supports may be heightadjustable (or course, so may the lower supports, as mentioned above),the keyboard supports may be angularly adjustable so that the firstangle and the second angle are adjustable, and/or each of the keyboardsupports may be length adjustable (e.g., by telescoping tubes, perhapswith a button lock). As in any embodiment, the support base may comprisefeet 16. Angle adjustment allows keyboard players to play keyboard(s) attheir preferred angle; such angle relative to the horizontal may bemeasured in a vertical plane that is orthogonal to the long axis of thekeyboard(s).

Adjustment of such angles may be accomplished in any of several knownways, including but not limited to spring-loaded pin and hole systems 17(where there may be one pin 18 for each support (or for both supports ofa single tier) and a plurality of holes 19 around a circular arc, eachdefining a different angle and into which such pin may be inserted tolock in an operator preferred angle). Length adjustability may beafforded by any of several methods, including but not limited tospring-loaded pin/hole systems (where each of a plurality of holes areassociated with a different support length; see FIG. 15). In certainembodiments, height adjustability may be achieved via an upright column20 with a plurality of holes 22, and at least one spring-loaded pin 21for each tier, such pin(s) insertable into the selected hole(s) toachieve a desired height for a support tier. As used herein, the termupright does not require vertical; it merely requires a verticalcomponent.

At least one embodiment of the inventive technology may be described asa keyboard stand apparatus 1 that comprises: an upright rear support 2;two keyboard supports 3 that, when the apparatus is in a supportconfiguration, are established forward of the upright rear support anddefine a keyboard support surface 4 having an angle relative tohorizontal; and a support base 6 established to support the upright rearsupport when the apparatus is in a support configuration, where each ofthe keyboard supports are length adjustable. In certain two tieredembodiments, the two keyboard supports are two lower keyboard supports10, the keyboard support surface is a lower keyboard support surface 11,and the angle relative to horizontal is a first angle 12 relative tohorizontal, and the apparatus may further comprise two upper keyboardsupports 25 that, when the apparatus is in the support configuration,are established forward of the upright rear support, above the two lowerkeyboard supports and define an upper keyboard support surface 26 havinga second angle 14 relative to horizontal. The keyboard supports may beangularly adjustable so that the first angle and/or the second angle areadjustable, the upright rear support proximal ends 7 of any of thekeyboard supports may be height adjustable, and/or the upright rearsupport proximal ends of the two upper keyboard supports may be heightadjustable.

At least one embodiment of the inventive technology may be described asa keyboard stand apparatus 1 that is reconfigurable from a support mode(see FIG. 1) to a storage mode (see FIG. 3), the apparatus comprising:an upright rear support 2; two keyboard supports 3 that, when theapparatus is in a support configuration, are established forward of theupright rear support and define a keyboard support surface 4 having anangle 5 relative to horizontal; and a support base 6 established tosupport the upright rear support when the apparatus is in a supportconfiguration, where the keyboard supports are angularly adjustable sothat the angle is adjustable to an operator preferred angle (i.e., thatangle preferred by a keyboardist), where upright rear support proximalends 7 of the two keyboard supports are height adjustable to an operatorpreferred support height, where settings for each the operator preferredangle, and the operator preferred support height are automaticallyretainable from a first support mode through a subsequent storage modeto a later support mode. In certain two tiered embodiments, the twokeyboard supports are two lower keyboard supports 10, the keyboardsupport surface is a lower keyboard support surface 11, and the anglerelative to horizontal is a first angle 12 relative to horizontal, andthe apparatus further comprises two upper keyboard supports 25 that,when the apparatus is in the support configuration, are establishedforward of the upright rear support, above the two lower keyboardsupports and define an upper keyboard support surface 26 having a secondangle 14 relative to horizontal. In certain embodiments, the keyboardsupports are angularly adjustable so that the first angle and/or thesecond angle are adjustable to operator preferred first and/or secondangles. In certain embodiments, settings for each the operator preferredangles and the operator preferred support heights are automaticallyretainable from a first support mode (e.g., as seen in a first show orgig in a first town) through a subsequent storage mode (as seen duringsubsequent transport to a second town, or merely nonuse) to a latersupport mode (as seen in a second, later, show, perhaps in a secondtown). In certain embodiments, each of the keyboard supports areadjustable to operator preferred lengths. Indeed, the setting for eachthe operator preferred lengths may be automatically retainable from thefirst support mode through the subsequent storage mode to the latersupport mode (it is of note that upon “memorizing” (or automaticallyretained) such lengths, width between midpoints of the supports may alsobe “memorized”). By automatically retainable is meant that no proactiveaction dedicated exclusively to “setting memorization” is required toassure such setting memorization or retention; merely followingafter-show break down procedures and subsequent setup procedures will“automatically” result in retention or memorization of the settingscharacteristic of the apparatus during setup at the previous show. It isof note, incidentally, that the feet of the apparatus may be eitherremoved and stored inside the upright rear support (or a bag, possibly),or folded (e.g., down) and stored within the upright rear support.Additional embodiments may involve a microphone boom that may extendfrom the upright rear support, or be stowed therein, as desired. Suchboom may be length adjustable.

Automatic height setting retention may be achieved by enabling a supportsnap-in feature, where the support snaps into a support attachmentmodule 30 that itself is height adjustable and that, because of itssmall size, need not be removed during apparatus break down. As such,it, and the height at which it is set (via, e.g., a spring loadedpin/hole system) are retained at their support configuration setting (asis seen when a keyboardist is playing). Automatic support angle settingretention is achieved also by enabling a support snap-in feature (see,e.g., FIG. 6), where the support snaps into a support attachment moduleat the only possible snap-in position, which is at the operatorpreferred support angle. Again, this support attachment module, becauseof its small size, need not be removed during apparatus break down. Assuch, it, and the support angle at which it is set (via, e.g., a springloaded pin/hole system) are retained at their support configurationsetting (as is seen when a keyboardist is playing). Automatic supportlength setting retention is achieved by a preferred length lock feature(a spring loaded pin and hole feature, as but one example; see FIG. 15),and removability and storage of such supports at their preferredlengths. Storage may be achieved in the upright support, or simply inthe storage bag. Of course, such comprehensive automatic retentionfeature enables quicker setup, particularly when the same keyboardistwill play after breakdown and storage of the apparatus. Band regulars(e.g., “roadies”), who set up the show truly appreciate suchcomprehensive automatic setting retention feature. So do, for obviousreasons, the musicians.

At least one embodiment of the inventive technology may be described asa keyboard stand apparatus 1 reconfigurable from a support mode to astorage mode, the apparatus comprising: an upright rear support 2; twokeyboard supports 3 that, when the apparatus is in a supportconfiguration, are established forward of the upright rear support anddefine a keyboard support surface 4 having an angle 5 relative tohorizontal; and a support base 6 established to support the upright rearsupport when the apparatus is in a support configuration, where uprightrear support proximal ends 7 of the two keyboard supports are heightadjustable to an operator preferred support height, where each of thekeyboard supports are adjustable to operator preferred lengths, andwhere settings for each the operator preferred support height, and theoperator preferred lengths are automatically retainable from a firstsupport mode through a subsequent storage mode to a later support mode.In certain embodiments, the two keyboard supports are two lower keyboardsupports 10, the keyboard support surface is a lower keyboard supportsurface 11, and the angle relative to horizontal is a first angle 12relative to horizontal, and the apparatus may further comprise two upperkeyboard supports 25 that, when the apparatus is in the supportconfiguration, are established forward of the upright rear support,above the two lower keyboard supports and define an upper keyboardsupport surface 26 having a second angle 14 relative to horizontal.Further, each of the keyboard supports may be adjustable to operatorpreferred lengths, and upright rear support proximal ends of the any ofthe keyboard supports may be height adjustable to an operator preferredsupport height (e.g., an upper support height and/or a lower supportheight). Also, keyboard supports may be angularly adjustable so that thefirst angle and the second angle are adjustable to operator preferredangles.

At least one embodiment of the inventive technology may be described asa keyboard stand apparatus 1 that comprises an upright rear support 2;two keyboard supports 3 that, when the apparatus is in a supportconfiguration, are established forward of the upright rear support anddefine a keyboard support surface 4 having an angle 5 relative tohorizontal; and a support base 6 established to support the upright rearsupport when the apparatus is in a support configuration, where uprightrear support proximal ends 7 of the two keyboard supports are heightadjustable, the apparatus further comprising: a support height column 20established above the support base; a plurality of holes 22 disposedalong the support height column (e.g., the axis thereof); and at leastone hole insertable parts 21, each associated with at least one of thekeyboard supports (hole insertable parts include parts such as pins,e.g., that can be inserted at least partially in such hole so as toprevent an undesired weight induced motion of the supports and perhaps akeyboard thereon); the at least one hole insertable parts may beinsertable into a selected hole corresponding to a operator preferredsupport height. In certain two tiered embodiments the two keyboardsupports are two lower keyboard supports 10, the keyboard supportsurface is a lower keyboard support surface 11, and the angle relativeto horizontal is a first angle relative to horizontal, and the apparatusfurther comprises two upper keyboard supports 25 that, when theapparatus is in the support configuration, are established forward ofthe upright rear support, above the two lower keyboard supports anddefine an upper keyboard support surface 26 having a second angle 14relative to horizontal. In certain two tiered embodiments, the at leastone hole insertable parts 21 are insertable into selected holescorresponding to a operator preferred lower support height and anoperator preferred upper support height. The plurality of holes may bethrough-holes and/or have axes that are horizontal. Each of the at leasttwo hole insertable parts may be biased towards the support heightcolumn (e.g., when they are spring loaded).

At least one embodiment of the inventive technology may be described asa keyboard stand apparatus 1 and comprise: an upright rear support 2;two keyboard supports 3 that, when the apparatus is in a supportconfiguration, are established forward of the upright rear support anddefine a keyboard support surface 4 having an angle 5 relative tohorizontal; a support base 6 established to support the upright rearsupport when the apparatus is in a support configuration; and manuallypivotable end stops 50, each established at an upright rear supportdistal end 51 of a different one of the keyboard supports. In certainembodiments, the upright rear support proximal ends 7 of the twokeyboard supports are height adjustable, each of the manually pivotableend stops are manually pivotable between a keyboard obstruction mode (soas to prevent undesired slippage of a supported keyboard by protrudingabove a support surface; see FIG. 13) and non-obstruction mode (as isseen where the stops are not protruding above a support surface; seeFIG. 12). In certain embodiments, the two keyboard supports are twolower keyboard supports 10, the keyboard support surface is a lowerkeyboard support surface 11, and the angle relative to horizontal is afirst angle 12 relative to horizontal, and further comprising two upperkeyboard supports 25 that, when the apparatus is in the supportconfiguration, are established forward of the upright rear support,above the two lower keyboard supports and define an upper keyboardsupport surface 26 having a second angle 14 relative to horizontal.Preferably, all support arms have manually pivotable end stops at theirupright rear support distal end 51. In certain embodiments, the uprightrear support proximal ends of the two upper keyboard supports are heightadjustable, and the manually pivotable end stops are each established atan upright rear support distal end of a different one of the upperkeyboard supports. The stops may pivot between at least two rotationlock positions (one being a full obstruct position, where the greatestobstruction possible, given the configuration of the stop, is provided),another being the non-obstruction position. Certain designs (as shown inFIGS. 16 and 17) may incorporate additional rotation lock positions(e.g., which are each 90 degrees apart). Regardless, reconfiguration ofthe stops into each such lock position, and retention in such positions,may be facilitated by biased parts 53 that spring lock into indentations54 when their protrusions align with such indentations. In FIGS. 16 and17, the biased parts are radially internal of the indented ring; suchparts are biased outwardly. Further, each of the keyboard supports maybe adjustable to operator preferred lengths.

At least one embodiment of the inventive technology may be described asa keyboard stand apparatus 1 and comprise an upright rear support 2; twokeyboard supports 3 that, when the apparatus is in a supportconfiguration, are established forward of the upright rear support anddefine a keyboard support surface 4 having an angle 5 relative tohorizontal; a support base established to support the upright rearsupport when the apparatus is in a support configuration; and at leastone power cable retainer 55 that is operable to hold electrical powercables 56 to the upright rear support during keyboard use, where uprightrear support proximal ends 7 of the two keyboard supports are heightadjustable. In particular embodiments, the at least one power cableretainer is operable to hold electrical power cables inside of an outersurface of the upright rear support during keyboard use. Further, eachof the at least one power cable retainer may be establishedsubstantially at a front of the upright rear support, perhaps in cavity60 (in horizontal cross-section). Each of the at least one power cableretainer may be rotatable (e.g., about an axis that is parallel to alongitudinal axis of the upright rear support) from a cable receptionmode (see FIG. 20) to a cable retention mode. Retainers may be retainedin position via an outward spring force that frictionally secures themin a cavity, where such outward force may be achieved by sizing theretainer “large” for such cavity; downward migration during use may beprecluded by stops in the cavity (e.g., a screw or pin protruding froman inner wall), or intervening tubes (that maintain the position ofretainers by filling in the gaps between them, thereby obstructingweight induced motion). In particular embodiments, the two keyboardsupports are two lower keyboard supports 10, the keyboard supportsurface is a lower keyboard support surface, and the angle relative tohorizontal is a first angle 12 relative to horizontal, and the apparatusfurther comprises two upper keyboard supports 25 that, when theapparatus is in the support configuration, are established forward ofthe upright rear support, above the two lower keyboard supports anddefine an upper keyboard support surface 26 having a second angle 14relative to horizontal. Further, upright rear support proximal ends 7 ofthe two upper keyboard supports may be height adjustable.

It is of note that the above described apparatus may, instead of beingmerely a keyboard stand apparatus, be more generally described as anitem stand apparatus. Perhaps it could be used with laptops, as but oneadditional example. Indeed, the term keyboard of the above can bereplaced with the term “item.”

At least one embodiment of the inventive technology may be described asa sound speaker support apparatus 60 comprising: a support base 61; alower vertical support member 62 fixed to the support base; an uppervertical support member 63 established substantially above said lowervertical support member when said apparatus is in a support mode(perhaps the two members are telescoping tubes); an elevated speakersupport 64 established above the upper vertical support member; anupwardly biased spring 65 established so as to provide an elevatingforce to the elevated speaker support; and a speaker stand height locker66 (e.g., a well-known system whereby a rotatable knob is rotatable toeffect a “pinch” that retains a larger tube in fixed position relativeto a smaller tube nested therein) established so as to enable locking ofthe elevated speaker support at a desired height. In particularembodiments, the upwardly biased spring is established within at leastone of the vertical support members, and may be either a pneumaticspring, a helical spring, a hydraulic spring, or a gas spring, as but afew examples. In certain designs, the elevating force is less than theweight of a speaker for which the apparatus is intended, so that duringelevation, the speaker will not raise uncontrollably (i.e., an operator,with a small manual force, can easily raise the supported speaker with amanual elevating force that is only a fraction of the weight of thespeaker). In certain embodiments, the elevating force is greater than 50per-cent the weight of the speaker; it may be greater than 75 per-centthe weight of the speaker, as but two examples. It is of note that, asmentioned, in a preferred embodiment, the apparatus is intended for usewith speakers that are heavier than the elevating force effected by theapparatus when it is released and allowed to exert the spring's upwardelevating force. The intended speaker will typically have a weight suchthat, upon application of the apparatus' elevating force, a person caneasily and controllably raise the speaker to the desired height; attimes, a lowering of a supported speaker may be desired, and the weightof a speaker for which the apparatus is intended will not be so greatthat the speaker lowers too fast or such that a user cannot control iteasily. To further facilitate control, the speaker stand height lockermay be operable to provide a gradual application of the elevating forceupon release of the stand height locker (as may be afforded by arotatable knob type locker as described above).

At least one embodiment of the inventive technology may be described asa telescoping tube position lock apparatus 70 that comprises a firsttube 71 at least partially nested in a second tube 72; an inner wedgebase 73 established substantially at an end 74 of the first tube; and afriction wedge 75 that is established so that a concave side 76 thereoffaces the first tube, that is biased towards an inner wedge distalportion 77 of the first tube (e.g., an end portion of the first tubethat is furthest from the inner wedge), and that is reconfigurable froma pressure wedge configuration 78 when the apparatus is in a tube lockmode (where the tubes are substantially axially immovable relative toeach other) to a release configuration 80 when the apparatus is in arelative tube position adjustment mode, where, when the friction wedgeis in the pressure wedge configuration, at least a portion of thefriction wedge is pressurized between the inner wedge base and aninterior surface 81 of the second tube, and where the friction wedge ispositionally responsive to a manual controller 82 (e.g., so thatmovement of the manual controller effects a positional change ormovement of the friction wedge) that enables manual reconfiguration ofthe apparatus between the tube lock mode and the relative tube positionadjustment mode. Certain embodiments may further comprise a useractivatable rod 83 (a rod that may be activated by a user, using themanual controller) that passes through at least a portion of the firsttube; the friction wedge may be attached to such rod. Certain otherembodiments with a cable (instead of a rod) may rely on a bias forceapplied at the site of the wedge base and the friction wedge (instead ofup at the manual controller). In embodiments with a user activatablerod, such rod may be attached to the manual controller; when suchcontroller is a squeeze trigger (as but one example), the rod may beactivatable with one hand. In certain embodiments, the user activatablerod is biased towards an inner wedge base distal portion of the firsttube (e.g., an end portion of the first tube that is furthest from theinner wedge base). In certain embodiments, the user activatable rod isupwardly biased (see, e.g., FIG. 21); such bias, again, may be providedby a spring (or other biaser) as part of the manual controller (e.g., asqueeze trigger 151, which may provide an bias force as shown).

Of course, in certain embodiments, the telescoping tube position lockapparatus is a stand (e.g., a microphone stand apparatus). However, theinventive technology may find application whenever the relative positionof two tubes, one at least partially nested in the other, must beadjusted and locked at a desired relative position. The manualcontroller may be a squeeze trigger (such that a one hand squeezeeffects reconfiguration of the apparatus). Particularly where theapparatus is a stand, the first tube may be an upper tube and the secondtube may be a lower tube (see FIG. 21). The friction wedge may bemulti-pronged (e.g., it may have at least three prongs, at least fourprongs, at least five prongs, at least six prongs, at least sevenprongs, at least eight prongs). Further, the inner wedge base may befrustoconical and point towards a non-nesting end of the second tube.

Another related set of at least one embodiment of the inventivetechnology is a telescoping tube position lock apparatus that comprises:a first tube 71 at least partially nested in a second tube 72; and aninner wedge base 73 and a friction wedge 75 cooperatively establishedsubstantially at an end of the first tube; and a manual controller 82(e.g. a spring loaded squeeze trigger 151 operable with one hand) thatenables reconfiguration of the apparatus between a tube lock mode andrelative tube position adjustment mode, where, when the apparatus is ina tube lock mode, at least a portion of the friction wedge ispressurized between the inner wedge base and an interior surface of thesecond tube, and where the friction wedge comprises at least threeprongs 88. By cooperatively established is meant that the wedge and thewedge base are relatively positioned so that the wedge may bepressuredly forced between the wedge base and the inner surface of thesecond tube so as to provide a locking force that precludes relativeaxial movement of the two tubes. In particular embodiments, the firsttube is an upper tube and the second tube is a lower tube.

Further, the friction wedge may be reconfigurable from a pressure wedgeconfiguration during the tube lock mode to a release configurationduring the relative tube position adjustment mode. In certainembodiments (e.g., FIG. 21), the friction wedge is positionallyresponsive to the manual controller (in other embodiments, the wedgebase may be so responsive). Further, the friction wedge may beestablished so that a concave side thereof faces the first tube. Thefriction wedge may be biased towards an inner wedge distal portion ofthe first tube 77; particularly where the apparatus is a stand apparatus(e.g., where it forms part of a stand such as a microphone stand), theuser activatable rod may be upwardly biased.

Also, again particularly where the apparatus is a stand apparatus(although certainly non-stand applications may exhibit the followingfeatures), a user activatable rod 83 may pass through at least a portionof the first tube; the friction wedge may be attached to such useractivatable rod, and to the manual controller. In certain embodiments,the user activatable rod is activatable with one hand via the manualcontroller. The inner wedge base may be frustoconical and point towardsa non-nesting end 89 of the second tube (i.e., an end of the second tubethat does not include therein the first tube).

It is note that in certain embodiments, the upper tube of thetelescoping tube position lock apparatus can be spun without tighteningor loosening. Further, the term tube includes shafts of a variety ofcross-sections—circular, oval, octagonal, square, rectangular,pentagonal, septagonal, hexagonal—as but a few examples. It is also ofnote that when the concave side of the friction wedge faces towards theweight application side (upwards in a mic stand, as a performer mayapply a large portion of his/her body weight downwards on theapparatus), such configuration tends to give a tighter lock againstslippage under such weight. Again, it should be understood that theinventive technology is not limited in application to merely stands(e.g., mic stands), but indeed may be usable whenever there is a need tolock the relative position of two tubes (one at least partially nestedin the other) as desired after an adjustment of the position of one tuberelative to the other.

As should be understood, the prongs during lock mode 88 (e.g., fingers)of the friction wedge are wedged between the wedge base and an innersurface of the tube in which one tube is nested. In certain embodiments,the friction wedge is axially repositioned so that it is wedged againsta stationary wedge base. The bias may maintain this position, and(again, only in certain embodiments) repositioning of the friction wedgeaway from the wedge base, against the bias force, such that the wedge(specifically the prongs of the wedge) is no longer pressured betweenthe wedge base and the interior of one of the tubes, allows foradjustment of the relative position of the two tubes. Suchrelease—allowing the aforementioned adjustment—may, in certainembodiments, be effected by, e.g., squeezing a squeeze trigger, therebyforcing the internal bar down against an upward bias force (provided bya spring in the squeeze trigger), and unwedging the wedge. When suchtrigger is released in such particular embodiments, the bias force takeseffect and the wedge is forced upwards, back into pressure wedgeconfiguration so that the apparatus is in a tube lock mode. It is alsoof note that in the three or more pronged wedge embodiments, the spatialgaps 90 between the prongs allow for more facile flexing outwards andinwards (in a radial direction) of the prongs, which may facilitateachievement and release of a pressure wedge, and enhance smoothoperation of the apparatus. Also, such gaps enable the friction wedge toeasily avoid the axial joint seam found on the inside of steel tubing.Such interference may be annoying to an operator during travel of thewedge during release configuration (indeed, it may inhibit free travelduring adjustment), or may compromise locking during a tube lock mode.

At least one embodiment of the inventive technology may be described asan item support apparatus 100 that comprises an item support yoke base101; an item weight pivotable, support yoke portion 102 that isestablished above the item support yoke base and that is angularlymovable 103 relative to the item support yoke base (see FIG. 33 for afront view of such angular motion); and at least one retainer responsiveto the item weight pivotable, support yoke portion such that placementof an item into the guitar support apparatus effects movement of the atleast one retainer to an item support augmentation mode (see FIG. 27)and unweighting of the item from the item support apparatus effectsmovement of the at least one retainer from the item support augmentationmode, where the item weight pivotable, support yoke portion is upwardlybiased. The item weight pivotable, support yoke portion is a supportyoke portion (such may include two yoke shaped (e.g., y shaped) parts)that pivots upon application of an item to it because of the item'sweight. The item support augmentation mode refers to that configurationwhere the item's retention in the yoke is augmented or supplemented by,e.g., retainers (such as wings; see FIGS. 27 and 29). As can be readilyappreciated, such retention mitigates the risk that the supported itemwill fall out of the stand when it is hit or moved; as such, thisapparatus may reduce the odds of impact caused damage. It is of notethat, regardless of the type of item supported, typically the item willhave a width enhanced portion (e.g., the headstock of a guitar) that canrest in the yoke. The term yoke does not require any particular shape,but often has a Y or U shape.

In at least one embodiment of the inventive technology, the item supportyoke base is attached to an upright support member 110; such is oftenfound when the apparatus is a stand apparatus (e.g., a guitar standapparatus). Such embodiments may further comprise a stand base 111established below the upright support member. In other embodiments, theitem support yoke base is attachable to a wall; support augmentation maybe desired when such wall moves, as may be found when such wall is onthe inside of a vehicle such as a moving van. In certain embodiments, atleast one retainer (one larger, or two smaller retainers such as wings,e.g.) is pivotally responsive to movement of the item weight pivotable,support yoke portion, and the item weight pivotable, support yokeportion is angularly movable about a single point 112, relative to theitem support yoke base. Further, the item weight pivotable, support yokeportion may be angularly movable, in non-translatory fashion, relativeto the item support yoke base (in such embodiments, the movementeffected by placement of the item into the apparatus would effect a purerotation motion 115, and not a motion that includes any translation, ofthe item weight pivotable, support yoke portion relative to the itemsupport yoke base).

The item weight pivotable, support yoke portion is typically upwardlybiased; this may be provided by a spring 116 established between theitem weight pivotable, support yoke portion and the item support yokebase. In certain embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise atleast one pin 118 and at least one corresponding track 119 configured toeffect the movement of the at least one retainer to and from the itemsupport augmentation mode. Thus (and due also to the upward bias), atleast one retainer may be responsive to the item weight pivotable,support yoke portion such that placement of an item into the guitarsupport apparatus effects movement (e.g., pivotal movement) of the atleast one retainer to an item support augmentation mode and unweightingof the item from the item support apparatus effects movement of the atleast one retainer from the item support augmentation mode. In certainembodiments, the at least one pin is attached to the item weightpivotable, support yoke portion and the at least one corresponding trackis of the at least one retainer.

As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic concepts ofthe present invention may be embodied in a variety of ways. It involvesboth support techniques as well as devices to accomplish the appropriatesupport. In this application, the support techniques are disclosed aspart of the results shown to be achieved by the various devicesdescribed and as steps which are inherent to utilization. They aresimply the natural result of utilizing the devices as intended anddescribed. In addition, while some devices are disclosed, it should beunderstood that these not only accomplish certain methods but also canbe varied in a number of ways. Importantly, as to all of the foregoing,all of these facets should be understood to be encompassed by thisdisclosure.

The discussion included in this application is intended to serve as abasic description. The reader should be aware that the specificdiscussion may not explicitly describe all embodiments possible; manyalternatives are implicit. It also may not fully explain the genericnature of the invention and may not explicitly show how each feature orelement can actually be representative of a broader function or of agreat variety of alternative or equivalent elements. Again, these areimplicitly included in this disclosure. Where the invention is describedin device-oriented terminology, each element of the device implicitlyperforms a function. Apparatus claims may not only be included for thedevice described, but also method or process claims may be included toaddress the functions the invention and each element performs. Neitherthe description nor the terminology is intended to limit the scope ofthe claims that will be included in any subsequent patent application.

It should also be understood that a variety of changes may be madewithout departing from the essence of the invention. Such changes arealso implicitly included in the description. They still fall within thescope of this invention. A broad disclosure encompassing both theexplicit embodiment(s) shown, the great variety of implicit alternativeembodiments, and the broad methods or processes and the like areencompassed by this disclosure and may be relied upon when drafting theclaims for any subsequent patent application. It should be understoodthat such language changes and broader or more detailed claiming may beaccomplished at a later date (such as by any required deadline) or inthe event the applicant subsequently seeks a patent filing based on thisfiling. With this understanding, the reader should be aware that thisdisclosure is to be understood to support any subsequently filed patentapplication that may seek examination of as broad a base of claims asdeemed within the applicant's right and may be designed to yield apatent covering numerous aspects of the invention both independently andas an overall system.

Further, each of the various elements of the invention and claims mayalso be achieved in a variety of manners. Additionally, when used orimplied, an element is to be understood as encompassing individual aswell as plural structures that may or may not be physically connected.This disclosure should be understood to encompass each such variation,be it a variation of an embodiment of any apparatus embodiment, a methodor process embodiment, or even merely a variation of any element ofthese. Particularly, it should be understood that as the disclosurerelates to elements of the invention, the words for each element may beexpressed by equivalent apparatus terms or method terms—even if only thefunction or result is the same. Such equivalent, broader, or even moregeneric terms should be considered to be encompassed in the descriptionof each element or action. Such terms can be substituted where desiredto make explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this inventionis entitled. As but one example, it should be understood that allactions may be expressed as a means for taking that action or as anelement which causes that action. Similarly, each physical elementdisclosed should be understood to encompass a disclosure of the actionwhich that physical element facilitates. Regarding this last aspect, asbut one example, the disclosure of a “support” should be understood toencompass disclosure of the act of “supporting”—whether explicitlydiscussed or not—and, conversely, were there effectively disclosure ofthe act of “supporting”, such a disclosure should be understood toencompass disclosure of a “support” and even a “means for supporting”Such changes and alternative terms are to be understood to be explicitlyincluded in the description.

Any patents, publications, or other references mentioned in thisapplication for patent are hereby incorporated by reference. Anypriority case(s) claimed by this application is hereby appended andhereby incorporated by reference. In addition, as to each term used itshould be understood that unless its utilization in this application isinconsistent with a broadly supporting interpretation, common dictionarydefinitions should be understood as incorporated for each term and alldefinitions, alternative terms, and synonyms such as contained in theRandom House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, second edition are herebyincorporated by reference. Finally, all references listed in the list ofReferences To Be Incorporated By Reference In Accordance With TheProvisional Patent Application or other information statement filed withthe application are hereby appended and hereby incorporated byreference, however, as to each of the above, to the extent that suchinformation or statements incorporated by reference might be consideredinconsistent with the patenting of this/these invention(s) suchstatements are expressly not to be considered as made by theapplicant(s).

Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to have support to claim andmake a statement of invention to at least: i) each of the supportdevices as herein disclosed and described, ii) the related methodsdisclosed and described, iii) similar, equivalent, and even implicitvariations of each of these devices and methods, iv) those alternativedesigns which accomplish each of the functions shown as are disclosedand described, v) those alternative designs and methods which accomplisheach of the functions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which isdisclosed and described, vi) each feature, component, and step shown asseparate and independent inventions, vii) the applications enhanced bythe various systems or components disclosed, viii) the resultingproducts produced by such systems or components, ix) each system,method, and element shown or described as now applied to any specificfield or devices mentioned, x) methods and apparatuses substantially asdescribed hereinbefore and with reference to any of the accompanyingexamples, xi) the various combinations and permutations of each of theelements disclosed, xii) each potentially dependent claim or concept asa dependency on each and every one of the independent claims or conceptspresented, and xiii) all inventions described herein.

With regard to claims whether now or later presented for examination, itshould be understood that for practical reasons and so as to avoid greatexpansion of the examination burden, the applicant may at any timepresent only initial claims or perhaps only initial claims with onlyinitial dependencies. The office and any third persons interested inpotential scope of this or subsequent applications should understandthat broader claims may be presented at a later date in this case, in acase claiming the benefit of this case, or in any continuation in spiteof any preliminary amendments, other amendments, claim language, orarguments presented, thus throughout the pendency of any case there isno intention to disclaim or surrender any potential subject matter. Itshould be understood that if or when broader claims are presented, suchmay require that any relevant prior art that may have been considered atany prior time may need to be re-visited since it is possible that tothe extent any amendments, claim language, or arguments presented inthis or any subsequent application are considered as made to avoid suchprior art, such reasons may be eliminated by later presented claims orthe like. Both the examiner and any person otherwise interested inexisting or later potential coverage, or considering if there has at anytime been any possibility of an indication of disclaimer or surrender ofpotential coverage, should be aware that no such surrender or disclaimeris ever intended or ever exists in this or any subsequent application.Limitations such as arose in Hakim v. Cannon Avent Group, PLC, 479 F.3d1313 (Fed. Cir 2007), or the like are expressly not intended in this orany subsequent related matter. In addition, support should be understoodto exist to the degree required under new matter laws—including but notlimited to European Patent Convention Article 123(2) and United StatesPatent Law 35 USC 132 or other such laws—to permit the addition of anyof the various dependencies or other elements presented under oneindependent claim or concept as dependencies or elements under any otherindependent claim or concept. In drafting any claims at any time whetherin this application or in any subsequent application, it should also beunderstood that the applicant has intended to capture as full and broada scope of coverage as legally available. To the extent thatinsubstantial substitutes are made, to the extent that the applicant didnot in fact draft any claim so as to literally encompass any particularembodiment, and to the extent otherwise applicable, the applicant shouldnot be understood to have in any way intended to or actuallyrelinquished such coverage as the applicant simply may not have beenable to anticipate all eventualities; one skilled in the art, should notbe reasonably expected to have drafted a claim that would have literallyencompassed such alternative embodiments.

Further, if or when used, the use of the transitional phrase“comprising” is used to maintain the “open-end” claims herein, accordingto traditional claim interpretation. Thus, unless the context requiresotherwise, it should be understood that the term “comprise” orvariations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, are intended to implythe inclusion of a stated element or step or group of elements or stepsbut not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of elementsor steps. Such terms should be interpreted in their most expansive formso as to afford the applicant the broadest coverage legally permissible.The use of the phrase, “or any other claim” is used to provide supportfor any claim to be dependent on any other claim, such as anotherdependent claim, another independent claim, a previously listed claim, asubsequently listed claim, and the like. As one clarifying example, if aclaim were dependent “on claim 20 or any other claim” or the like, itcould be re-drafted as dependent on claim 1, claim 15, or even claim 715(if such were to exist) if desired and still fall with the disclosure.It should be understood that this phrase also provides support for anycombination of elements in the claims and even incorporates any desiredproper antecedent basis for certain claim combinations such as withcombinations of method, apparatus, process, and the like claims.

Finally, any claims set forth at any time are hereby incorporated byreference as part of this description of the invention, and theapplicant expressly reserves the right to use all of or a portion ofsuch incorporated content of such claims as additional description tosupport any of or all of the claims or any element or component thereof,and the applicant further expressly reserves the right to move anyportion of or all of the incorporated content of such claims or anyelement or component thereof from the description into the claims orvice-versa as necessary to define the matter for which protection issought by this application or by any subsequent continuation, division,or continuation-in-part application thereof, or to obtain any benefitof, reduction in fees pursuant to, or to comply with the patent laws,rules, or regulations of any country or treaty, and such contentincorporated by reference shall survive during the entire pendency ofthis application including any subsequent continuation, division, orcontinuation-in-part application thereof or any reissue or extensionthereon.

What is claimed is: 1-63. (canceled)
 64. A telescoping tube positionlock apparatus comprising: a first tube at least partially nested in asecond tube; an inner wedge base established substantially at an end ofsaid first tube; and a friction wedge that is established so that aconcave side thereof faces said first tube, that is biased towards aninner wedge distal portion of said first tube, and that isreconfigurable from a pressure wedge configuration when said apparatusis in a tube lock mode to a release configuration when said apparatus isin a relative tube position adjustment mode, wherein, when said frictionwedge is in said pressure wedge configuration, at least a portion ofsaid friction wedge is pressurized between said inner wedge base and aninterior surface of said second tube, wherein said friction wedge ispositionally responsive to a manual controller that enables manualreconfiguration of said apparatus between said tube lock mode and saidrelative tube position adjustment mode.
 65. A telescoping tube positionlock apparatus as described in claim 64 further comprising a useractivatable rod that passes through at least a portion of said firsttube.
 66. A telescoping tube position lock apparatus as described inclaim 65 wherein said friction wedge is attached to said useractivatable rod.
 67. A telescoping tube position lock apparatus asdescribed in claim 65 wherein said user activatable rod is attached tosaid manual controller.
 68. A telescoping tube position lock apparatusas described in claim 67 wherein said user activatable rod isactivatable with one hand via said manual controller.
 69. A telescopingtube position lock apparatus as described in claim 68 wherein saidmanual controller is a squeeze trigger.
 70. A telescoping tube positionlock apparatus as described in claim 65 wherein said user activatablerod is biased towards a inner wedge base distal portion of said firsttube.
 71. A telescoping tube position lock apparatus as described inclaim 70 wherein said user activatable rod is upwardly biased.
 72. Atelescoping tube position lock apparatus as described in claim 70wherein said telescoping tube position lock apparatus is a standapparatus.
 73. A telescoping tube position lock apparatus as describedin claim 64 wherein said manual controller comprises a squeeze trigger.74. A telescoping tube position lock apparatus as described in claim 64wherein said first tube is an upper tube.
 75. A telescoping tubeposition lock apparatus as described in claim 64 wherein said secondtube is a lower tube.
 76. A telescoping tube position lock apparatus asdescribed in claim 64 wherein said friction wedge is multi-pronged. 77.A telescoping tube position lock apparatus as described in claim 76wherein said friction wedge comprises at least three prongs.
 78. Atelescoping tube position lock apparatus as described in claim 77wherein said friction wedge comprises at least a number of prongsselected from the group consisting of: at least four prongs, at leastfive prongs, at least six prongs, at least seven prongs, and at leasteight prongs.
 79. A telescoping tube position lock apparatus asdescribed in claim 64 wherein said inner wedge base is frustoconical andpoints towards a non-nesting end of said second tube.
 80. A telescopingtube position lock apparatus as described in claim 64 wherein saidtelescoping tube position lock apparatus is a microphone standapparatus.
 81. A telescoping tube position lock apparatus comprising: afirst tube at least partially nested in a second tube; and an innerwedge base and a friction wedge cooperatively established substantiallyat an end of said first tube; and a manual controller that enablesreconfiguration of said apparatus between a tube lock mode and relativetube position adjustment mode, wherein, when said apparatus is in a tubelock mode, at least a portion of said friction wedge is pressurizedbetween said inner wedge base and an interior surface of said secondtube, and wherein said friction wedge comprises at least three prongs.82. A telescoping tube position lock apparatus as described in claim 81wherein said first tube is an upper tube.
 83. A telescoping tubeposition lock apparatus as described in claim 81 wherein said secondtube is a lower tube.
 84. A telescoping tube position lock apparatus asdescribed in claim 81 wherein said friction wedge is reconfigurable froma pressure wedge configuration during said tube lock mode to a releaseconfiguration during said relative tube position adjustment mode.
 85. Atelescoping tube position lock apparatus as described in claim 81wherein said friction wedge is positionally responsive to said manualcontroller.
 86. A telescoping tube position lock apparatus as describedin claim 81 wherein said friction wedge is established so that a concaveside thereof faces said first tube.
 87. A telescoping tube position lockapparatus as described in claim 81 wherein said friction wedge is biasedtowards an inner wedge distal portion of said first tube.
 88. Atelescoping tube position lock apparatus as described in claim 87wherein said user activatable rod is upwardly biased.
 89. A telescopingtube position lock apparatus as described in claim 87 wherein saidtelescoping tube position lock apparatus is a stand apparatus.
 90. Atelescoping tube position lock apparatus as described in claim 81further comprising a user activatable rod that passes through at least aportion of said first tube.
 91. A telescoping tube position lockapparatus as described in claim 90 wherein said friction wedge isattached to said user activatable rod.
 92. A telescoping tube positionlock apparatus as described in claim 90 wherein said user activatablerod is attached to said manual controller.
 93. A telescoping tubeposition lock apparatus as described in claim 92 wherein said useractivatable rod is activatable with one hand via said manual controller.94. A telescoping tube position lock apparatus as described in claim 81wherein said inner wedge base is frustoconical and points towards anon-nesting end of said second tube.
 95. A telescoping tube positionlock apparatus as described in claim 81 wherein said manual controllercomprises a squeeze trigger.
 96. A telescoping tube position lockapparatus as described in claim 81 wherein said friction wedge comprisesat least a number of prongs selected from the group consisting of: atleast four prongs, at least five prongs, at least six prongs, at leastseven prongs, and at least eight prongs.
 97. A telescoping tube positionlock apparatus as described in claim 81 wherein said telescoping tubeposition lock apparatus is a microphone stand apparatus. 98-120.(canceled)